My Way News - Iraqis celebrate US pullback but bombing kills 33
AP reports: "Iraqi authorities welcomed the U.S. pullback with nationalist rhetoric and celebrations in what appeared to be an attempt by al-Maliki to rally the public behind his government and secure more support ahead of an election in January. [...] At a news conference, Odierno charged that Iran was continuing to support and train militants in Iraq who attack U.S. and Iraqi forces with rockets and roadside bombs."
Comment: This was a great day for both U.S. forces and the Iraqi government, it represents a victory for "the surge" strategy and necessary first step on the eventual U.S. withdrawal from Iraq. The next few days and weeks will be a precarious time for Iraq, and the potential for Iran to be a spoiler is high, it's not over...yet.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
My Way News - Top US commander: Iran still supports Iraq attacks
AP reports: "The top U.S. military commander in Iraq on Tuesday accused Iran of continuing to support and train militants who are carrying out attacks, including most of the ones in Baghdad. [...] The U.S. military accuses Iran of backing Shiite militias in Iraq with training and weapons and says it remains a major threat to Iraq's stability as American combat troops pull back from cities in a first step toward a full withdrawal by the end of 2011."
AP reports: "The top U.S. military commander in Iraq on Tuesday accused Iran of continuing to support and train militants who are carrying out attacks, including most of the ones in Baghdad. [...] The U.S. military accuses Iran of backing Shiite militias in Iraq with training and weapons and says it remains a major threat to Iraq's stability as American combat troops pull back from cities in a first step toward a full withdrawal by the end of 2011."
My Way News - Gunmen fire on group of Detroit teens, wounding 7
AP reports: "Gunmen in a green minivan opened fire on a group of teenagers waiting at a bus stop near a Detroit school on Tuesday, wounding seven including two who were in critical condition, authorities said."
AP reports: "Gunmen in a green minivan opened fire on a group of teenagers waiting at a bus stop near a Detroit school on Tuesday, wounding seven including two who were in critical condition, authorities said."
BBC NEWS - Pakistani militants abandon deal
BBC News reports: "A wing of the Taliban based in a Pakistani tribal area bordering Afghanistan say they have scrapped a peace deal with the government. [...] The group said they were abandoning the peace deal because of continued US missile strikes and Pakistan's widening anti-Taliban offensive in the north-west."
BBC News reports: "A wing of the Taliban based in a Pakistani tribal area bordering Afghanistan say they have scrapped a peace deal with the government. [...] The group said they were abandoning the peace deal because of continued US missile strikes and Pakistan's widening anti-Taliban offensive in the north-west."
Monday, June 29, 2009
My Way News - EU and Turkey: still talking membership, barely
AP reports: "Turkey's enthusiasm for European Union membership has eroded under internal tension, European skepticism and a dispute over divided Cyprus, an EU member. Key European leaders, in turn, fear an influx of migrants, worry about human rights and wonder about admitting a huge Muslim nation into a 27-nation bloc that has struggled to integrate its own Muslim minorities."
Comment: This will be a very interesting process to watch, and one I encourage skeptics to watch with us. Ataturk's dream of a secular Turkey firmly rooted in the West will be decisively shattered. Our expectation, based on Bible prophecy, is that Turkey will become alienated from Europe and the West and become part of the Islamic world (in the political and military sense, not merely religious), eventually joining in an invasion of the Middle East and Israel lead by Russia and Iran (with global Islam skillfully manipulated by Vlad). We can already see the rift between secularists and Islamists growing within Turkish society and I suspect that the final schism will be brought about by European arrogance and condescension in the EU membership talks. Turkey, of course, has nothing to prove, they have been a stable NATO member for years, yet the EU still sees them as a potential member, probationary, not yet in good standing, in need of continued effort to make sure they play nice with others. "Check back with us in a few years and we will see how you have progressed," is their attitude toward Turkey, and that just won't work (nor should it) for the Turks. This is a train wreck that everyone can see coming, everyone of goodwill wants to avoid it, and yet it seems destined to happen. Well, perhaps it is.
AP reports: "Turkey's enthusiasm for European Union membership has eroded under internal tension, European skepticism and a dispute over divided Cyprus, an EU member. Key European leaders, in turn, fear an influx of migrants, worry about human rights and wonder about admitting a huge Muslim nation into a 27-nation bloc that has struggled to integrate its own Muslim minorities."
Comment: This will be a very interesting process to watch, and one I encourage skeptics to watch with us. Ataturk's dream of a secular Turkey firmly rooted in the West will be decisively shattered. Our expectation, based on Bible prophecy, is that Turkey will become alienated from Europe and the West and become part of the Islamic world (in the political and military sense, not merely religious), eventually joining in an invasion of the Middle East and Israel lead by Russia and Iran (with global Islam skillfully manipulated by Vlad). We can already see the rift between secularists and Islamists growing within Turkish society and I suspect that the final schism will be brought about by European arrogance and condescension in the EU membership talks. Turkey, of course, has nothing to prove, they have been a stable NATO member for years, yet the EU still sees them as a potential member, probationary, not yet in good standing, in need of continued effort to make sure they play nice with others. "Check back with us in a few years and we will see how you have progressed," is their attitude toward Turkey, and that just won't work (nor should it) for the Turks. This is a train wreck that everyone can see coming, everyone of goodwill wants to avoid it, and yet it seems destined to happen. Well, perhaps it is.
My Way News - Iran says partial recount shows election valid
AP reports: "Iran's election oversight body on Monday declared the hotly disputed presidential vote to be valid after a partial recount, rejecting opposition allegations of fraud and further silencing calls for a new vote."
AP reports: "Iran's election oversight body on Monday declared the hotly disputed presidential vote to be valid after a partial recount, rejecting opposition allegations of fraud and further silencing calls for a new vote."
My Way News - Israel to swap West Bank outpost for new units
AP reports: "Israel has approved 50 new houses in a West Bank settlement just as Israel's defense minister left Monday for Washington to try to defuse growing tension with the Obama administration over such construction."
AP reports: "Israel has approved 50 new houses in a West Bank settlement just as Israel's defense minister left Monday for Washington to try to defuse growing tension with the Obama administration over such construction."
My Way News - US withdraws from Iraqi cities despite violence
AP reports: "By Tuesday, all but a small number of American soldiers will have left Baghdad and other urban areas, handing over security to Iraqi soldiers and police still largely untested as an independent fighting force."
Comment: Nice to report this milestone, but it's too early to celebrate. Let's see if the Iraqi security forces can keep the peace.
AP reports: "By Tuesday, all but a small number of American soldiers will have left Baghdad and other urban areas, handing over security to Iraqi soldiers and police still largely untested as an independent fighting force."
Comment: Nice to report this milestone, but it's too early to celebrate. Let's see if the Iraqi security forces can keep the peace.
My Way News - Violence across NW Pakistan kills dozens
AP reports: "Pakistani jets bombed suspected Taliban hideouts after a stray mortar shell crashed into a mosque during prayers, part of a wave of violence that claimed nearly 70 lives in 24 hours along the northwest region bordering Afghanistan, officials said Monday."
AP reports: "Pakistani jets bombed suspected Taliban hideouts after a stray mortar shell crashed into a mosque during prayers, part of a wave of violence that claimed nearly 70 lives in 24 hours along the northwest region bordering Afghanistan, officials said Monday."
My Way News - Bernard Madoff gets maximum 150 years in prison
AP reports: "Convicted Wall Street swindler Bernard Madoff was sentenced to 150 years in prison Monday for a fraud so extensive that the judge said he needed to send a message to potential imitators and to victims who demanded harsh punishment."
AP reports: "Convicted Wall Street swindler Bernard Madoff was sentenced to 150 years in prison Monday for a fraud so extensive that the judge said he needed to send a message to potential imitators and to victims who demanded harsh punishment."
My Way News - Drug-resistant swine flu seen in Danish patient
AP reports: "Health officials have confirmed a case of swine flu that is resistant to Tamiflu, the leading pharmaceutical weapon against the new virus."
AP reports: "Health officials have confirmed a case of swine flu that is resistant to Tamiflu, the leading pharmaceutical weapon against the new virus."
Netanyahu: EU receptive to Israel stance on Palestinian statehood - Haaretz - Israel News
Haaretz reports: "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that the European heads of state with whom he met last week were receptive to Israel's new position on Palestinian statehood."
Haaretz reports: "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that the European heads of state with whom he met last week were receptive to Israel's new position on Palestinian statehood."
U.S. sees Syria as key player for Mideast peace - Haaretz - Israel News
Haaretz reports: "U.S. President Barack Obama's administration is examining a proposed Israeli-Syrian peace plan that is based on demilitarizing the Golan Heights and transforming it, along with a strip of the Jordan Valley, into a nature preserve, or 'peace park,' that would be open to visitors during the day. [...] The demilitarized area would be under international supervision, led by U.S. officers, while the pullout and dismantlement of Israeli settlements on the Golan would be carried out over several years, in parallel with a normalization of ties between Syria and Israel."
Comment: Is this a rehearsal for an internationalized Jerusalem?
Haaretz reports: "U.S. President Barack Obama's administration is examining a proposed Israeli-Syrian peace plan that is based on demilitarizing the Golan Heights and transforming it, along with a strip of the Jordan Valley, into a nature preserve, or 'peace park,' that would be open to visitors during the day. [...] The demilitarized area would be under international supervision, led by U.S. officers, while the pullout and dismantlement of Israeli settlements on the Golan would be carried out over several years, in parallel with a normalization of ties between Syria and Israel."
Comment: Is this a rehearsal for an internationalized Jerusalem?
My Way News - U.S.-trained Palestinian force is keen for action
AP reports: "The force being shaped for the West Bank is supposed to underpin the Palestinian government of Western-backed President Mahmoud Abbas against violent challenges by Hamas, other extremists and criminal gangs, while convincing Israel that having a Palestinian state for a neighbor will pose no threat."
AP reports: "The force being shaped for the West Bank is supposed to underpin the Palestinian government of Western-backed President Mahmoud Abbas against violent challenges by Hamas, other extremists and criminal gangs, while convincing Israel that having a Palestinian state for a neighbor will pose no threat."
My Way News - Iran pledges 'crushing' response to US critiques
AP reports: "President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad vowed Saturday to make the U.S. regret its criticism of Iran's postelection crackdown and said the 'mask has been removed' from the Obama administration's efforts to improve relations. [...] The cleric-led regime now appears to have quashed a protest movement that brought hundreds of thousands to the streets of Tehran and other cities in the greatest challenge to its authority in 30 years."
AP reports: "President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad vowed Saturday to make the U.S. regret its criticism of Iran's postelection crackdown and said the 'mask has been removed' from the Obama administration's efforts to improve relations. [...] The cleric-led regime now appears to have quashed a protest movement that brought hundreds of thousands to the streets of Tehran and other cities in the greatest challenge to its authority in 30 years."
Friday, June 26, 2009
My Way News - G-8 to Israel: end settlements, open borders
AP reports: "The Quartet of Mideast negotiators and foreign ministers of the Group of Eight industrialized nations took advantage of what the U.N. chief said was a 'historic' opportunity with the new Obama administration in issuing nearly identical calls for the resumption of direct peace talks, an end to violence, and economic reconstruction for war-battered Gaza."
Comment: There is a very high level of international agreement to remain willfully delusional about the peaceful intentions of the Palestinians and to stubbornly insist that Israel continue to make more concessions. The eight countries of the G8 along with Russia and representatives of the E.U. and U.N. are pressing ahead with a plan that places the burden of peacemaking on Israel without asking for any substantial concessions from the Palestinians. Israel already gave up Gaza, what have the Palestinians given?
AP reports: "The Quartet of Mideast negotiators and foreign ministers of the Group of Eight industrialized nations took advantage of what the U.N. chief said was a 'historic' opportunity with the new Obama administration in issuing nearly identical calls for the resumption of direct peace talks, an end to violence, and economic reconstruction for war-battered Gaza."
Comment: There is a very high level of international agreement to remain willfully delusional about the peaceful intentions of the Palestinians and to stubbornly insist that Israel continue to make more concessions. The eight countries of the G8 along with Russia and representatives of the E.U. and U.N. are pressing ahead with a plan that places the burden of peacemaking on Israel without asking for any substantial concessions from the Palestinians. Israel already gave up Gaza, what have the Palestinians given?
My Way News - Iranian cleric urges executing some protesters
AP reports: "A senior cleric on Friday urged Iran's protest leaders to be punished 'without mercy' and said some should face execution - harsh calls that signal a nasty new turn in the regime's crackdown on demonstrators two weeks after its disputed election."
AP reports: "A senior cleric on Friday urged Iran's protest leaders to be punished 'without mercy' and said some should face execution - harsh calls that signal a nasty new turn in the regime's crackdown on demonstrators two weeks after its disputed election."
My Way News - US will not use force to inspect NKorean ship
AP reports: "The United States will not use force to inspect a North Korean ship suspected of carrying banned goods, an American official was quoted as saying Friday. An American destroyer has been shadowing the North Korean freighter sailing off China's coast, possibly on its way to Myanmar."
AP reports: "The United States will not use force to inspect a North Korean ship suspected of carrying banned goods, an American official was quoted as saying Friday. An American destroyer has been shadowing the North Korean freighter sailing off China's coast, possibly on its way to Myanmar."
My Way News - Somalis create world's largest refugee camp
AP reports: "The bloody conflict in Somalia has created the world's largest refugee camp, with 500 hungry and exhausted refugees pouring into this wind-swept camp in neighboring Kenya every day, the U.N. refugee agency said Friday."
AP reports: "The bloody conflict in Somalia has created the world's largest refugee camp, with 500 hungry and exhausted refugees pouring into this wind-swept camp in neighboring Kenya every day, the U.N. refugee agency said Friday."
My Way News - Jackson death was twittered, texted and Facebooked
AP reports: "Facebook said there were no internal reports of the site slowing from too much traffic. But there were slowdowns or outages on other sites. Google said the spike in searches related to Jackson was so big that Google News initially mistook it for an automated attack."
Comment: In the news, Michael Jackson is dead. In other news, Michael Jackson is still dead.
Ok, I don't mean to make light of it, but celebrity news is not the kind of news we cover here, but I think it's important to note that this is a global news event that people are participating in using the new social networking technology, which is indeed relevant to Bible prophecy.
AP reports: "Facebook said there were no internal reports of the site slowing from too much traffic. But there were slowdowns or outages on other sites. Google said the spike in searches related to Jackson was so big that Google News initially mistook it for an automated attack."
Comment: In the news, Michael Jackson is dead. In other news, Michael Jackson is still dead.
Ok, I don't mean to make light of it, but celebrity news is not the kind of news we cover here, but I think it's important to note that this is a global news event that people are participating in using the new social networking technology, which is indeed relevant to Bible prophecy.
My Way News - NKorean state media news available on Twitter
AP reports: "News stories from North Korea's official mouthpiece are available on Twitter.A Twitter page under the name of KCNA, Pyongyang's state Korean Central News Agency, shows a list of its English-language stories against a background of the North's red-and-blue national flag."
AP reports: "News stories from North Korea's official mouthpiece are available on Twitter.A Twitter page under the name of KCNA, Pyongyang's state Korean Central News Agency, shows a list of its English-language stories against a background of the North's red-and-blue national flag."
My Way News - Iran expected to dominate G8 meeting in Italy
AP reports: "Foreign ministers of Group of Eight countries are seeking to find a common position on Iran's violent crackdown on protesters as they open a meeting in this northeastern Italian city. Italy, the host of the meeting, said Thursday it wanted to send a tough message, but Italian officials in Trieste also stressed the need not to further isolate Iran."
AP reports: "Foreign ministers of Group of Eight countries are seeking to find a common position on Iran's violent crackdown on protesters as they open a meeting in this northeastern Italian city. Italy, the host of the meeting, said Thursday it wanted to send a tough message, but Italian officials in Trieste also stressed the need not to further isolate Iran."
My Way News - Fans from Sydney to Bogota mourn Michael Jackson
AP reports: "Michael Jackson's death Thursday in California prompted broadcasters from Sydney to Seoul - where the news came early Friday - to interrupt morning programs, while fans remembered a 'tortured genius' whose squeals and sliding moves captivated a generation and who sparked global trends in music, dance and fashion."
AP reports: "Michael Jackson's death Thursday in California prompted broadcasters from Sydney to Seoul - where the news came early Friday - to interrupt morning programs, while fans remembered a 'tortured genius' whose squeals and sliding moves captivated a generation and who sparked global trends in music, dance and fashion."
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Ethiopian Church Leader to Announce Holy-Ark Unveiling - News Briefs - Israel National News
INN reports: "Patriarch Abuna Pauolos of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has scheduled a news conference for Friday afternoon in Rome to unveil the Biblical Ark of the Covenant or make a full statement regarding it. While in Rome for meetings with Pope Benedict XVI, he told reporters that the time had come to reveal the Holy Ark before the world, adding that the holy container has been hidden in the custody of his church for hundreds of years."
Comment: This could be rather extraordinary if it happens and is proven to be the true Ark of the Covenant. If the Ark is found, can a new temple be at hand?
INN reports: "Patriarch Abuna Pauolos of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has scheduled a news conference for Friday afternoon in Rome to unveil the Biblical Ark of the Covenant or make a full statement regarding it. While in Rome for meetings with Pope Benedict XVI, he told reporters that the time had come to reveal the Holy Ark before the world, adding that the holy container has been hidden in the custody of his church for hundreds of years."
Comment: This could be rather extraordinary if it happens and is proven to be the true Ark of the Covenant. If the Ark is found, can a new temple be at hand?
My Way News - NKorea warns of 'fire shower of nuclear' attack
AP reports: "The new U.N. resolution seeks to clamp down on North Korea's trading of banned arms and weapons-related material by requiring U.N. member states to request inspections of ships carrying suspected cargo. North Korea has said it would consider interception of its ships a declaration of war."
AP reports: "The new U.N. resolution seeks to clamp down on North Korea's trading of banned arms and weapons-related material by requiring U.N. member states to request inspections of ships carrying suspected cargo. North Korea has said it would consider interception of its ships a declaration of war."
My Way News - Mousavi Web site: 70 professors detained in Iran
AP reports: "Seventy university professors were detained in Iran in a widening government crackdown on protesters [...] In clashes Wednesday near Iran's parliament, thousands of police crushed hundreds of Mousavi supporters, using tear gas and clubs."
AP reports: "Seventy university professors were detained in Iran in a widening government crackdown on protesters [...] In clashes Wednesday near Iran's parliament, thousands of police crushed hundreds of Mousavi supporters, using tear gas and clubs."
My Way News - Netanyahu meeting called off with US Mideast envoy
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's meeting in Paris with the top U.S. Mideast envoy has been called off in an apparent sign of growing friction over President Barack Obama's call for a halt to construction in Jewish settlements."
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's meeting in Paris with the top U.S. Mideast envoy has been called off in an apparent sign of growing friction over President Barack Obama's call for a halt to construction in Jewish settlements."
My Way News - US general says troops need new view of Aghan war
AP reports: "Thousands of Marines this spring have poured into Helmand - the country's most violent province and the world's largest producer of opium poppies. Southern Afghanistan is the center of the Taliban-led insurgency, which has made a violent comeback in the last three years. McChrystal, who took command of all U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan last week, is making his first visits to regional commanders to outline the new combat rules."
AP reports: "Thousands of Marines this spring have poured into Helmand - the country's most violent province and the world's largest producer of opium poppies. Southern Afghanistan is the center of the Taliban-led insurgency, which has made a violent comeback in the last three years. McChrystal, who took command of all U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan last week, is making his first visits to regional commanders to outline the new combat rules."
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
My Way News - Intensified crackdown mutes protests in Iran
AP reports: "Overwhelmed by police and left with limited alternatives, Iranian demonstrators resorted Tuesday to more subtle ways of challenging the outcome of the presidential election: holding up posters, shouting from rooftops and turning on car headlights."
AP reports: "Overwhelmed by police and left with limited alternatives, Iranian demonstrators resorted Tuesday to more subtle ways of challenging the outcome of the presidential election: holding up posters, shouting from rooftops and turning on car headlights."
My Way News - Italy backs Netanyahu's peace plans
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu got a warm and supportive welcome Tuesday from Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi, while postponing a potentially less comfortable meeting with President Barack Obama's Mideast envoy."
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu got a warm and supportive welcome Tuesday from Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi, while postponing a potentially less comfortable meeting with President Barack Obama's Mideast envoy."
My Way News - NKorean cargo ship could test new UN sanctions
AP reports: "The North Korean-flagged Kang Nam left the port of Nampo last Wednesday, with the U.S. destroyer following it. Two Pentagon officials described a relay operation in which the destroyer USS John S. McCain would hand over surveillance of the ship to the destroyer USS McCampbell. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence. The North has said it would consider any interception 'an act of war,' and an editorial Tuesday in its main Rodong Sinmun newspaper said the Korean peninsula was on the brink of a nuclear war."
AP reports: "The North Korean-flagged Kang Nam left the port of Nampo last Wednesday, with the U.S. destroyer following it. Two Pentagon officials described a relay operation in which the destroyer USS John S. McCain would hand over surveillance of the ship to the destroyer USS McCampbell. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence. The North has said it would consider any interception 'an act of war,' and an editorial Tuesday in its main Rodong Sinmun newspaper said the Korean peninsula was on the brink of a nuclear war."
My Way News - American shot dead in West African capital
AP reports: "Extremist violence in Mauritania, a moderate Muslim nation, has increased. In 2007, a group of French picnickers was killed. The gunmen were believed to be linked to al-Qaida's north Africa branch and the incident prompted organizers of the famous Dakar Rally to cancel the trans-Sahara car race."
AP reports: "Extremist violence in Mauritania, a moderate Muslim nation, has increased. In 2007, a group of French picnickers was killed. The gunmen were believed to be linked to al-Qaida's north Africa branch and the incident prompted organizers of the famous Dakar Rally to cancel the trans-Sahara car race."
My Way News - Gates approves creation of new cyber command
AP reports: "Defense Secretary Robert Gates has formally ordered the creation of a new military cyber command that will coordinate the Pentagon's efforts to defend its networks and conduct cyberwarfare."
AP reports: "Defense Secretary Robert Gates has formally ordered the creation of a new military cyber command that will coordinate the Pentagon's efforts to defend its networks and conduct cyberwarfare."
VOA News - Iran's Top Electoral Body Refuses to Annul Disputed Election
The Voice of America reports: "Iranian media reported Tuesday that the nation's powerful Guardian Council has said it will not annul the results of the nation's disputed presidential election, saying there were no major polling irregularities."
The Voice of America reports: "Iranian media reported Tuesday that the nation's powerful Guardian Council has said it will not annul the results of the nation's disputed presidential election, saying there were no major polling irregularities."
Monday, June 22, 2009
My Way News - Palestinian premier: State institutions in 2 years
AP reports: "Institutions for an independent Palestinian state should be up and running within two years, Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad said Monday, for the first time setting such a target date."
AP reports: "Institutions for an independent Palestinian state should be up and running within two years, Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad said Monday, for the first time setting such a target date."
My Way News - Unrest could hinder Tehran's regional goals
AP reports: "Iran has had an impressive run for the past decade - expanding its regional muscle through proxy militias, its expanding missile capabilities and its big brother role with Iraq's Shiites after the toppling of arch-foe Saddam Hussein. But the fallout from the post-election unrest will most likely bring tougher times for Iran's ambitions beyond its borders."
AP reports: "Iran has had an impressive run for the past decade - expanding its regional muscle through proxy militias, its expanding missile capabilities and its big brother role with Iraq's Shiites after the toppling of arch-foe Saddam Hussein. But the fallout from the post-election unrest will most likely bring tougher times for Iran's ambitions beyond its borders."
My Way News - Italy: Strong aftershock hits quake zone
AP reports: "A powerful aftershock hit the quake-struck areas of central Italy on Monday, rattling buildings as far away as Rome. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The temblor had a preliminary magnitude of 4.6, according to the U.S. Geological Survey."
AP reports: "A powerful aftershock hit the quake-struck areas of central Italy on Monday, rattling buildings as far away as Rome. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The temblor had a preliminary magnitude of 4.6, according to the U.S. Geological Survey."
My Way News - WHO: 51 more swine flu deaths as pandemic spreads
AP reports: "The World Health Organization says the global tally of deaths from swine flu has increased by 51 to 231."
AP reports: "The World Health Organization says the global tally of deaths from swine flu has increased by 51 to 231."
My Way News - Official: N. Korea ship carries weapons to Myanmar
AP reports: "A North Korean-flagged ship under close watch in Asian waters is believed to be heading toward Myanmar carrying small arms cargo banned under a new U.N. resolution, a South Korean intelligence official said. Still, analysts say a high seas interception - something North Korea has said it would consider an act of war - is unlikely."
AP reports: "A North Korean-flagged ship under close watch in Asian waters is believed to be heading toward Myanmar carrying small arms cargo banned under a new U.N. resolution, a South Korean intelligence official said. Still, analysts say a high seas interception - something North Korea has said it would consider an act of war - is unlikely."
My Way News - US dedicates new diplomatic office in Taiwan
AP reports: "Waldron also warns of bigger strategic risks for the U.S. should Taipei and Beijing grow so close that China gains a significant military foothold on the island as part of some future political settlement. 'Because of Taiwan's location, if China were able to use it as a base, it would be able to project a far greater threat in the region than it does now,' he said."
AP reports: "Waldron also warns of bigger strategic risks for the U.S. should Taipei and Beijing grow so close that China gains a significant military foothold on the island as part of some future political settlement. 'Because of Taiwan's location, if China were able to use it as a base, it would be able to project a far greater threat in the region than it does now,' he said."
My Way News - 'Gabon weeps' for strongman despite lost riches
AP reports: "When longtime dictator Omar Bongo died last week, he left behind at least 66 bank accounts. The first family owned 45 homes in France, including at least 14 in Paris and 11 on the French Riviera. And they boasted of 19 or more luxury cars, including a Bugatti sports model that cost the Republic of Gabon $1.5 million."
Comment: I think the word for this is kleptocracy, a ruling class that loots the treasury and lets the people suffer. When will Africans wake up and reject their dictators?
AP reports: "When longtime dictator Omar Bongo died last week, he left behind at least 66 bank accounts. The first family owned 45 homes in France, including at least 14 in Paris and 11 on the French Riviera. And they boasted of 19 or more luxury cars, including a Bugatti sports model that cost the Republic of Gabon $1.5 million."
Comment: I think the word for this is kleptocracy, a ruling class that loots the treasury and lets the people suffer. When will Africans wake up and reject their dictators?
Famine threatens parts of Uganda - UPI.com
UPI reports: "High prices for food in Southern Sudan are luring subsistence farmers in Uganda to sell the produce they need to survive, U.N. officials say [...] Tarsis Kabwegyere, the Ugandan disaster preparedness minister, said the government has set aside $5 million to buy emergency food supplies."
UPI reports: "High prices for food in Southern Sudan are luring subsistence farmers in Uganda to sell the produce they need to survive, U.N. officials say [...] Tarsis Kabwegyere, the Ugandan disaster preparedness minister, said the government has set aside $5 million to buy emergency food supplies."
My Way News - Report: Ex-Scientologist had evidence destroyed
AP reports: "Other revelations in the newspaper's three-part series revealed that McPherson had achieved 'clear' status, a designation that means they are free of painful trauma and unwanted feelings, just weeks before her mental breakdown and death. The designation comes through auditing, Scientology's trademark counseling sessions."
AP reports: "Other revelations in the newspaper's three-part series revealed that McPherson had achieved 'clear' status, a designation that means they are free of painful trauma and unwanted feelings, just weeks before her mental breakdown and death. The designation comes through auditing, Scientology's trademark counseling sessions."
Friday, June 19, 2009
My Way News - UN: World hunger reaches 1 billion mark
AP reports: "The global financial meltdown has pushed the ranks of the world's hungry to a record 1 billion, a grim milestone that poses a threat to peace and security, U.N. food officials said Friday."
Comment: The global economic crisis, rising fuel prices, and the other traditional causes of famine (war, the weather, bad government) conspire to make hunger an issue on the international agenda.
AP reports: "The global financial meltdown has pushed the ranks of the world's hungry to a record 1 billion, a grim milestone that poses a threat to peace and security, U.N. food officials said Friday."
Comment: The global economic crisis, rising fuel prices, and the other traditional causes of famine (war, the weather, bad government) conspire to make hunger an issue on the international agenda.
My Way News - Iran's leader: End protests or risk 'bloodshed'
AP reports: "Iran's supreme leader sought Friday to end the deepening crisis over disputed elections with one decisive speech - declaring the vote will almost certainly stand and sternly warning opposition leaders to end street protests or be held responsible for any 'bloodshed and chaos' to come."
Comment: Well, that's that. It's too bad their system couldn't reconcile the popular demand for reform with the rigid clerical autocracy that had already decided Ahmadinejad was their man. Israel will not have to work hard to remind the world (and the U.S.) what a threat Iran is to the region and the world.
AP reports: "Iran's supreme leader sought Friday to end the deepening crisis over disputed elections with one decisive speech - declaring the vote will almost certainly stand and sternly warning opposition leaders to end street protests or be held responsible for any 'bloodshed and chaos' to come."
Comment: Well, that's that. It's too bad their system couldn't reconcile the popular demand for reform with the rigid clerical autocracy that had already decided Ahmadinejad was their man. Israel will not have to work hard to remind the world (and the U.S.) what a threat Iran is to the region and the world.
My Way News - Ground forces move in for Pakistan offensive
AP reports: "The coming operation in South Waziristan, along with one winding down in the Swat Valley further north, could be a turning point in Pakistan's yearslong and sometimes halfhearted fight against militancy."
AP reports: "The coming operation in South Waziristan, along with one winding down in the Swat Valley further north, could be a turning point in Pakistan's yearslong and sometimes halfhearted fight against militancy."
My Way News - Web support pours out for Iran protesters
AP reports: "Google and Facebook have rushed out services in Farsi. Twitter users have changed their home cities to Tehran to provide cover for Internet users there. Others have configured their computers to serve as relay points to bypass Iranian censorship. [...] All week, Internet users in the U.S. and around the world fixed their eyes on the events unfolding in Iran, the way viewers might have been glued to their television sets 30 years ago. But unlike 30, or even five years ago, this time they could participate."
Comment: This is the dawn of a new era. Sure, we have had global news events in the past, events that captivated people not just in one country but all over the world. For example, the assassination of President Kennedy, the lunar landings, the death of Princess Diana, the Indonesian Tsunami, and the 9-11 terrorist attacks all were major global news events. Still, for all of their global scope, people were mere observers, watching events unfold on television. Now, thanks to the internet and social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, people can actually take an active role in a global news event. They can send each other e-mail, text messages, and even video, drawing them in and taking them beyond being merely observers to being active participants in the event. We are becoming an interactive global community. Think about this the next time you read Revelation 11:9-10.
AP reports: "Google and Facebook have rushed out services in Farsi. Twitter users have changed their home cities to Tehran to provide cover for Internet users there. Others have configured their computers to serve as relay points to bypass Iranian censorship. [...] All week, Internet users in the U.S. and around the world fixed their eyes on the events unfolding in Iran, the way viewers might have been glued to their television sets 30 years ago. But unlike 30, or even five years ago, this time they could participate."
Comment: This is the dawn of a new era. Sure, we have had global news events in the past, events that captivated people not just in one country but all over the world. For example, the assassination of President Kennedy, the lunar landings, the death of Princess Diana, the Indonesian Tsunami, and the 9-11 terrorist attacks all were major global news events. Still, for all of their global scope, people were mere observers, watching events unfold on television. Now, thanks to the internet and social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, people can actually take an active role in a global news event. They can send each other e-mail, text messages, and even video, drawing them in and taking them beyond being merely observers to being active participants in the event. We are becoming an interactive global community. Think about this the next time you read Revelation 11:9-10.
Kings of the East & Gog Alliance
Asia Times Online - Central Asian News and current affairs, Russia, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan
The Asia Times reports: "The list of participants at the SCO summit in Yekaterinburg testifies to the SCO's steady evolution as an influential regional and international body [...] Russian President Dmitry Medvedev stated in April that Russia and China would strengthen their military cooperation through the SCO and engage in several joint military maneuvers. He implied that these plans were aimed at limiting the US's presence in Central Asia."
Russia Hosts 'Counterbalance' to U.S., 'Shanghai Cooperation Organization' - FOXNews.com
Fox News reports: "Moscow is expected to use the meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to try to cement the six-nation group as a counterbalance to the U.S. presence in the region. The group includes Kazakhstan (kah-zahk-STAHN'), Kyrgyzstan (KEER'-gih-stan), Tajikistan (tah-JEEK'-ih-stahn) and Uzbekistan (ooz-bek-ih-STAHN'), with countries such as India, Iran and Pakistan holding observer status."
Backgrounder: Brief history of Shanghai Cooperation Organization_English_Xinhua
Xinhua reports: "The ninth summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is held in Russia's Ural city of Yekaterinburg. The following is a brief history of the organization."
The Associated Press: Medvedev calls for new reserve currencies
AP reports: "Moscow is expected to use the meeting of leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to try to cement the six-nation group as a counterbalance to the U.S. presence in strategic Central Asia."
VOA News - China Offers Neighbors $10 Billion Credit
Voice of America reports: "China is offering a $10 billion credit to help members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization overcome the global economic crisis. President Hu Jintao made the proposal at the SCO Summit in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, where a focus on economic issues has been accompanied by concern over terrorism and drug crime emanating from Afghanistan."
Comment: The SCO represents the formation of an anti-American alliance that is welcoming to Iran and determined to challenge the U.S. in Central Asia. The alliance is lead by Russia and financed by China. The alliance is primarily concerned with trade and development but there is a security aspect, and Russia and China have conducted military exercises as part of their SCO role. Full membership for Iran can be expected in the near future.
Asia Times Online - Central Asian News and current affairs, Russia, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan
The Asia Times reports: "The list of participants at the SCO summit in Yekaterinburg testifies to the SCO's steady evolution as an influential regional and international body [...] Russian President Dmitry Medvedev stated in April that Russia and China would strengthen their military cooperation through the SCO and engage in several joint military maneuvers. He implied that these plans were aimed at limiting the US's presence in Central Asia."
Russia Hosts 'Counterbalance' to U.S., 'Shanghai Cooperation Organization' - FOXNews.com
Fox News reports: "Moscow is expected to use the meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to try to cement the six-nation group as a counterbalance to the U.S. presence in the region. The group includes Kazakhstan (kah-zahk-STAHN'), Kyrgyzstan (KEER'-gih-stan), Tajikistan (tah-JEEK'-ih-stahn) and Uzbekistan (ooz-bek-ih-STAHN'), with countries such as India, Iran and Pakistan holding observer status."
Backgrounder: Brief history of Shanghai Cooperation Organization_English_Xinhua
Xinhua reports: "The ninth summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is held in Russia's Ural city of Yekaterinburg. The following is a brief history of the organization."
The Associated Press: Medvedev calls for new reserve currencies
AP reports: "Moscow is expected to use the meeting of leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to try to cement the six-nation group as a counterbalance to the U.S. presence in strategic Central Asia."
VOA News - China Offers Neighbors $10 Billion Credit
Voice of America reports: "China is offering a $10 billion credit to help members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization overcome the global economic crisis. President Hu Jintao made the proposal at the SCO Summit in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, where a focus on economic issues has been accompanied by concern over terrorism and drug crime emanating from Afghanistan."
Comment: The SCO represents the formation of an anti-American alliance that is welcoming to Iran and determined to challenge the U.S. in Central Asia. The alliance is lead by Russia and financed by China. The alliance is primarily concerned with trade and development but there is a security aspect, and Russia and China have conducted military exercises as part of their SCO role. Full membership for Iran can be expected in the near future.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
My Way News - US boosts Hawaii defense to counter North Korea threat
AP reports: "The United States has deployed anti-missile defenses around Hawaii amid reports that North Korea may fire its most advanced ballistic missile toward the U.S. islands early next month, adding to already high tensions in the region."
Comments: This is really quite astounding when you think about, North Korea may actually fire off a missile toward Hawaii. WI wonder what the U.S. response would be if they did that?
AP reports: "The United States has deployed anti-missile defenses around Hawaii amid reports that North Korea may fire its most advanced ballistic missile toward the U.S. islands early next month, adding to already high tensions in the region."
Comments: This is really quite astounding when you think about, North Korea may actually fire off a missile toward Hawaii. WI wonder what the U.S. response would be if they did that?
My Way News - Hundreds of thousands stage somber rally in Iran
AP reports: "Hundreds of thousands of protesters dressed in black and green flooded the streets of Tehran on Thursday in a somber, candlelit show of defiance and mourning for those killed in clashes after Iran's disputed presidential election."
AP reports: "Hundreds of thousands of protesters dressed in black and green flooded the streets of Tehran on Thursday in a somber, candlelit show of defiance and mourning for those killed in clashes after Iran's disputed presidential election."
My Way News - Militants kill at least 19 in Algeria
AP reports: "Al-Qaida-linked militants ambushed a convoy of Algerian police escorting Chinese construction workers near a highway building site, killing at least 19 people and wounding several others, a local official and Algerian newspapers said Thursday [...] Algerian militants are leftover from a civil war between radical Islamists and government forces that killed up to 200,000 people during the 1990's."
AP reports: "Al-Qaida-linked militants ambushed a convoy of Algerian police escorting Chinese construction workers near a highway building site, killing at least 19 people and wounding several others, a local official and Algerian newspapers said Thursday [...] Algerian militants are leftover from a civil war between radical Islamists and government forces that killed up to 200,000 people during the 1990's."
My Way News - Militants, 'hacktivists' exploit Web, eye recruits
AP reports: "A senior defense official said intelligence reports indicate extremist groups are seeking computer experts, including those capable of breaching government or other sensitive network systems. [...] jihadists' interest in hacking is evident in forums across the Internet. Law enforcement officials say terrorists are branching out into Internet fraud to raise money for their operations."
AP reports: "A senior defense official said intelligence reports indicate extremist groups are seeking computer experts, including those capable of breaching government or other sensitive network systems. [...] jihadists' interest in hacking is evident in forums across the Internet. Law enforcement officials say terrorists are branching out into Internet fraud to raise money for their operations."
My Way News - AP source: Parker surrogate's home burglarized
AP reports: "Two Ohio police chiefs are being investigated in a suspected burglary aimed at supplying a tabloid with photos and other information about the surrogate mother carrying twins for Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, an official told The Associated Press on Thursday."
Comment: This is saying it wasn't just your run of the mill cops, it was the chief of police, two of them (the guys in charge of entire departments), who were engaged in burglary for the purpose of selling info to tabloids. How could men of such low character have been promoted to positions of such responsibility, and then to betray that trust? It's just beyond words.
AP reports: "Two Ohio police chiefs are being investigated in a suspected burglary aimed at supplying a tabloid with photos and other information about the surrogate mother carrying twins for Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, an official told The Associated Press on Thursday."
Comment: This is saying it wasn't just your run of the mill cops, it was the chief of police, two of them (the guys in charge of entire departments), who were engaged in burglary for the purpose of selling info to tabloids. How could men of such low character have been promoted to positions of such responsibility, and then to betray that trust? It's just beyond words.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
My Way News - Hamas rejects Carter plea to recognize Israel
AP reports: "A senior Hamas official praised former President Jimmy Carter on Wednesday, a day after he met with the group, but said he failed to persuade the Islamic rulers of Gaza to accept international demands, including recognizing Israel. [...] According to Hamas ideology, there is no room for a Jewish state in an Islamic Middle East. The militant group has sent dozens of suicide bombers into Israel, killing hundreds."
Comment: Well, there you go, once again on the record, in black and white, etched in stone: Hamas does not accept Israel's right to exist. And yet the "peace process" will go blindly onward, as if somehow that does not matter and the Palestinians really do want peace. It's madness.
AP reports: "A senior Hamas official praised former President Jimmy Carter on Wednesday, a day after he met with the group, but said he failed to persuade the Islamic rulers of Gaza to accept international demands, including recognizing Israel. [...] According to Hamas ideology, there is no room for a Jewish state in an Islamic Middle East. The militant group has sent dozens of suicide bombers into Israel, killing hundreds."
Comment: Well, there you go, once again on the record, in black and white, etched in stone: Hamas does not accept Israel's right to exist. And yet the "peace process" will go blindly onward, as if somehow that does not matter and the Palestinians really do want peace. It's madness.
My Way News - Palestinians: Don't start talks 'from scratch'
AP reports: "Netanyahu says Israel is ready to resume negotiations but refuses to be bound to Olmert's reported concessions. Palestinians say they turned down his offer of a state in Gaza, more than 90 percent of the West Bank and parts of Jerusalem."
Comment: See, that's what I don't get, they turned that offer down, they want more than that, but what kind of negotiating position is that? They are telling Netanyahu, "let's take the very best offer that your much more liberal predecessor could make and then give us more and maybe we will accept that." How likely is it that Netanyahu can give them a more generous deal than Olmert did?
AP reports: "Netanyahu says Israel is ready to resume negotiations but refuses to be bound to Olmert's reported concessions. Palestinians say they turned down his offer of a state in Gaza, more than 90 percent of the West Bank and parts of Jerusalem."
Comment: See, that's what I don't get, they turned that offer down, they want more than that, but what kind of negotiating position is that? They are telling Netanyahu, "let's take the very best offer that your much more liberal predecessor could make and then give us more and maybe we will accept that." How likely is it that Netanyahu can give them a more generous deal than Olmert did?
My Way News - Iran to US: Put soothing words into action
AP reports: "The Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security recently estimated that with nearly 5,000 centrifuges now fully operating, Iran could accumulate enough material to produce weapons-grade uranium for two warheads by February 2010 - or sooner, if it brought more than 2,000 additional machines it now has on standby immediately on line."
AP reports: "The Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security recently estimated that with nearly 5,000 centrifuges now fully operating, Iran could accumulate enough material to produce weapons-grade uranium for two warheads by February 2010 - or sooner, if it brought more than 2,000 additional machines it now has on standby immediately on line."
My Way News - Report: NKorea may fire missile toward Hawaii
AP reports: "North Korea may fire a long-range ballistic missile toward Hawaii in early July, a Japanese newspaper said Thursday, amid escalating tensions between the communist country and the United States over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs."
Comment: Another day, another threat from North Korea. Will they launch a missile towards the U.S. on the 4th of July?
AP reports: "North Korea may fire a long-range ballistic missile toward Hawaii in early July, a Japanese newspaper said Thursday, amid escalating tensions between the communist country and the United States over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs."
Comment: Another day, another threat from North Korea. Will they launch a missile towards the U.S. on the 4th of July?
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
My Way News - NKorea warns US of 'thousand-fold' military action
AP reports: "North Korea warned Wednesday of a 'thousand-fold' military retaliation against the U.S. and its allies if provoked [...] The warning, carried by the North's state media, came hours after President Barack Obama declared North Korea a 'grave threat' to the world and pledged that new U.N. sanctions on the communist regime will be aggressively enforced."
Comment: While the world remains fixated on Iran the storm clouds are gathering over North Korea. It is only a matter of time before Obama faces a moment of decision, order a North Korean ship to be boarded to search for weapons, or let it go on its way. The sanctions and interdiction procedures are in place but the political will has so far not been tested...yet.
AP reports: "North Korea warned Wednesday of a 'thousand-fold' military retaliation against the U.S. and its allies if provoked [...] The warning, carried by the North's state media, came hours after President Barack Obama declared North Korea a 'grave threat' to the world and pledged that new U.N. sanctions on the communist regime will be aggressively enforced."
Comment: While the world remains fixated on Iran the storm clouds are gathering over North Korea. It is only a matter of time before Obama faces a moment of decision, order a North Korean ship to be boarded to search for weapons, or let it go on its way. The sanctions and interdiction procedures are in place but the political will has so far not been tested...yet.
My Way News - Thousands return to streets of Iran's capital
AP reports: "Thousands of Iranians swarmed the streets of Tehran on Tuesday in rival demonstrations over the country's disputed presidential election, pushing a deep crisis into its fourth day despite a government attempt to placate the opposition by recounting a limited number of ballots."
Comment: There is so much at stake here, I really hope for the best, but I am fearful of the worst outcome: brutal repression.
AP reports: "Thousands of Iranians swarmed the streets of Tehran on Tuesday in rival demonstrations over the country's disputed presidential election, pushing a deep crisis into its fourth day despite a government attempt to placate the opposition by recounting a limited number of ballots."
Comment: There is so much at stake here, I really hope for the best, but I am fearful of the worst outcome: brutal repression.
My Way News - Syria plays down uranium find by UN nuclear agency
AP reports: "Syria's nuclear chief is suggesting the U.N. nuclear agency's discovery of new uranium traces in the country do not harden allegations that Damascus has a hidden nuclear program."
Comment: Well, sure, I believe them. Don't you?
AP reports: "Syria's nuclear chief is suggesting the U.N. nuclear agency's discovery of new uranium traces in the country do not harden allegations that Damascus has a hidden nuclear program."
Comment: Well, sure, I believe them. Don't you?
My Way News - Russia, China seek greater international clout
AP reports: "The leaders of four major emerging economies - Russia, China, Brazil and India - apparently failed Tuesday to reach consensus on reducing the dominance of the U.S. dollar despite growing calls for an alternative global reserve currency."
Comment: I hesitate to post this news report because I don't want to contribute to the near hysteria that arose in the BP community about this issue. I can't tell you how many e-mails I received from group members asking about Russian and Chinese plans to create a global currency. They were never planning to do that, this is all about trade at the international level - between countries and international organizations - it was never about a new currency. Still, I guess that gets lost in translation. The real importance of this story is the continued rise of Russian and Chinese influence and their antipathy for the United States. Based on BP, we envision both increasing over time so that when/if the U.S. and the West ever falters, they will seek to control the region of the world that Joel Rosenberg calls "the epicenter."
AP reports: "The leaders of four major emerging economies - Russia, China, Brazil and India - apparently failed Tuesday to reach consensus on reducing the dominance of the U.S. dollar despite growing calls for an alternative global reserve currency."
Comment: I hesitate to post this news report because I don't want to contribute to the near hysteria that arose in the BP community about this issue. I can't tell you how many e-mails I received from group members asking about Russian and Chinese plans to create a global currency. They were never planning to do that, this is all about trade at the international level - between countries and international organizations - it was never about a new currency. Still, I guess that gets lost in translation. The real importance of this story is the continued rise of Russian and Chinese influence and their antipathy for the United States. Based on BP, we envision both increasing over time so that when/if the U.S. and the West ever falters, they will seek to control the region of the world that Joel Rosenberg calls "the epicenter."
My Way News - Vatican China envoy to get tough with Beijing
AP reports: "The Vatican's top envoy for China says the time has come for the Holy See to get tough with Beijing and not compromise over religious freedom, saying relations are taking a 'worrisome slide' for the worse. [...] Millions of Chinese, however, belong to unofficial congregations that are loyal to Rome. Underground priests and bishops have been harassed or arrested by Beijing authorities."
AP reports: "The Vatican's top envoy for China says the time has come for the Holy See to get tough with Beijing and not compromise over religious freedom, saying relations are taking a 'worrisome slide' for the worse. [...] Millions of Chinese, however, belong to unofficial congregations that are loyal to Rome. Underground priests and bishops have been harassed or arrested by Beijing authorities."
My Way News - Pakistan prepares offensive on Taliban stronghold
AP reports: "Pakistan's army launched airstrikes and ferried in tanks and artillery as it confirmed Tuesday that it was preparing a major offensive against insurgents in al-Qaida and the Taliban's safest haven along the Afghan border."
AP reports: "Pakistan's army launched airstrikes and ferried in tanks and artillery as it confirmed Tuesday that it was preparing a major offensive against insurgents in al-Qaida and the Taliban's safest haven along the Afghan border."
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Dawning of the Biometric Age - BusinessWeek
Business Week reports: "In baby steps and giant leaps, the world is moving further into digital identification and biometrics. The new technology raises concerns about privacy, of course, as well as opportunities for security companies."
Comment: Not the mark, but the trend is toward greater use of biometric identification technology in more and more areas of society. It's a trend worth keeping an eye on.
Photo: ABC News.com
My Way News - Chief blames `knuckleheads' for Lakers disturbance
AP reports: "Street celebrations that began peacefully turned ugly. Fires were set, objects were thrown at police officers, several businesses were looted and buses, police cars and other vehicles were vandalized. Hooligans hurled rocks through the window of one bus abandoned under an overpass."
Comment: I don't understand this phenomenon of rioting after sporting events. It doesn't seem to depend on whether the team wins or loses, nor does it depend on what city the game is in. It seems to reflect a fundamental decay in the character of citizens, get a couple thousand of them together and some of them will be vandals out to trash their own city. It didn't used to be that way, and I'm not sure how it can be stopped, but it's definitely a sign of the times.
AP reports: "Street celebrations that began peacefully turned ugly. Fires were set, objects were thrown at police officers, several businesses were looted and buses, police cars and other vehicles were vandalized. Hooligans hurled rocks through the window of one bus abandoned under an overpass."
Comment: I don't understand this phenomenon of rioting after sporting events. It doesn't seem to depend on whether the team wins or loses, nor does it depend on what city the game is in. It seems to reflect a fundamental decay in the character of citizens, get a couple thousand of them together and some of them will be vandals out to trash their own city. It didn't used to be that way, and I'm not sure how it can be stopped, but it's definitely a sign of the times.
My Way News - Obama: Israeli PM's speech opening for Mideast
AP reports: "President Barack Obama on Monday welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's endorsement of Palestinian independence as a way to restart peace talks and called on Arab neighbors to join the discussion."
AP reports: "President Barack Obama on Monday welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's endorsement of Palestinian independence as a way to restart peace talks and called on Arab neighbors to join the discussion."
Burnham-On-Sea.com - UFO sighting in the skies above Burnham-On-Sea
Burnham-On-Sea.com reports: "A mystery UFO has been spotted in the skies over Burnham-On-Sea by a group of youngsters, who filmed it on a mobile phone."
Burnham-On-Sea.com reports: "A mystery UFO has been spotted in the skies over Burnham-On-Sea by a group of youngsters, who filmed it on a mobile phone."
Rumors of War: China
My Way News - China-US naval incident part of a rising trend
AP reports: "China has called the latest collision between Chinese and U.S. naval vessels an accident, but many of the elements echo previous altercations that have raised concerns that China's navy is growing increasingly aggressive [...] While not every incident gets reported, analysts say evidence suggests they're happening more frequently as Beijing flexes its improved naval capabilities and asserts its objections to U.S. Naval activity in disputed waters [...] Although the incident occurred in international waters reportedly northwest of Subic Bay in the Philippines, China vigorously opposes all U.S. Naval activity and intelligence gathering in the region."
China sub collides with array towed by U.S. ship: report - Reuters
Reuters reports: "A Chinese submarine accidentally collided with an underwater sonar array being towed by a U.S. military ship, CNN reported on Friday, quoting an unnamed military official."
My Way News - China-US naval incident part of a rising trend
AP reports: "China has called the latest collision between Chinese and U.S. naval vessels an accident, but many of the elements echo previous altercations that have raised concerns that China's navy is growing increasingly aggressive [...] While not every incident gets reported, analysts say evidence suggests they're happening more frequently as Beijing flexes its improved naval capabilities and asserts its objections to U.S. Naval activity in disputed waters [...] Although the incident occurred in international waters reportedly northwest of Subic Bay in the Philippines, China vigorously opposes all U.S. Naval activity and intelligence gathering in the region."
China sub collides with array towed by U.S. ship: report - Reuters
Reuters reports: "A Chinese submarine accidentally collided with an underwater sonar array being towed by a U.S. military ship, CNN reported on Friday, quoting an unnamed military official."
My Way News - Senior EU official holds talks with Hezbollah
AP reports: "The European Union's foreign affairs chief held talks Saturday with a Hezbollah legislator in the first meeting between a senior EU diplomat and the Iranian-backed militant Shiite group. [...] Solana's Mideast tour will also include talks on attempts to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations."
AP reports: "The European Union's foreign affairs chief held talks Saturday with a Hezbollah legislator in the first meeting between a senior EU diplomat and the Iranian-backed militant Shiite group. [...] Solana's Mideast tour will also include talks on attempts to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations."
Sunday, June 14, 2009
My Way News - Netanyahu endorses Palestinian independence
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu endorsed an independent Palestinian state beside Israel for the first time on Sunday, dramatically reversing himself in the face of U.S. pressure but attaching conditions the Palestinians swiftly rejected."
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu endorsed an independent Palestinian state beside Israel for the first time on Sunday, dramatically reversing himself in the face of U.S. pressure but attaching conditions the Palestinians swiftly rejected."
Saturday, June 13, 2009
BBC NEWS - Ahmadinejad defiant on 'free' Iran poll
The BBC reports: "Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has defended his 'completely free' re-election as Iran's president, amid violent clashes on the streets over claims of election fraud. [...] BBC Iranian affairs analyst Sadeq Saba says the margin of the win was so wide that it made a lot of people suspicious."
My Way News - Israel's foreign minister sees threat in Iran vote
AP reports: "Israel's foreign minister said Saturday that the re-election of hard-line Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad highlighted the urgent need for the West to forcefully act against Tehran's nuclear program."
Comment: It's sad to see Iran's democracy undermined by the dictatorship of the mullahs, but did anyone really expect them to allow a Western leaning government, friendly to civil liberties and women's rights, come to power? The only question now is how harshly they will deal with the civil unrest sparked the disappointment of Mousavi's supporters. Our real concern is how an emboldened Ahmadinejad will deal with the U.N. and the U.S. over the nuclear issue, and of course, Israel. This is a great setback, it means that Iran's path on the road to total enmity for the West and Israel will not be moderated.
The BBC reports: "Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has defended his 'completely free' re-election as Iran's president, amid violent clashes on the streets over claims of election fraud. [...] BBC Iranian affairs analyst Sadeq Saba says the margin of the win was so wide that it made a lot of people suspicious."
My Way News - Israel's foreign minister sees threat in Iran vote
AP reports: "Israel's foreign minister said Saturday that the re-election of hard-line Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad highlighted the urgent need for the West to forcefully act against Tehran's nuclear program."
Comment: It's sad to see Iran's democracy undermined by the dictatorship of the mullahs, but did anyone really expect them to allow a Western leaning government, friendly to civil liberties and women's rights, come to power? The only question now is how harshly they will deal with the civil unrest sparked the disappointment of Mousavi's supporters. Our real concern is how an emboldened Ahmadinejad will deal with the U.N. and the U.S. over the nuclear issue, and of course, Israel. This is a great setback, it means that Iran's path on the road to total enmity for the West and Israel will not be moderated.
BBC NEWS - Mitchell: Syria has 'crucial' role in peace
The BBC reports: "Correspondents say the US is testing Syria's support for America's stated new drive for peace in the region. 'Syria has an integral role to play in reaching comprehensive peace,' Mr Mitchell said on Saturday."
The BBC reports: "Correspondents say the US is testing Syria's support for America's stated new drive for peace in the region. 'Syria has an integral role to play in reaching comprehensive peace,' Mr Mitchell said on Saturday."
Rumors of War: North Korea
My Way News - Defying sanctions, NKorea vows to make more nukes
AP reports: "North Korea responded to new U.N. sanctions with more defiance, promising Saturday to step up its nuclear bomb-making program by enriching uranium and threatening war on any country that dares to stop its ships on the high seas."
My Way News - Analysis: NKorean nuclear moves tied to succession
AP reports: "If North Korea can win credibility as a nuclear-armed power and extract promises of recognition and aid from Washington and its allies, Kim will have set the stage for his son to take the world's first communist dynasty into its third generation."
North Korea responds to U.N. with nuclear threats - Reuters
Reuters reports: "North Korea said on Saturday it would start a uranium enrichment program and weaponize all its plutonium in response to fresh U.N. sanctions, which the United States said it would work vigorously to enforce. Pyongyang also threatened military action if Washington and its allies tried to isolate it."
My Way News - Defying sanctions, NKorea vows to make more nukes
AP reports: "North Korea responded to new U.N. sanctions with more defiance, promising Saturday to step up its nuclear bomb-making program by enriching uranium and threatening war on any country that dares to stop its ships on the high seas."
My Way News - Analysis: NKorean nuclear moves tied to succession
AP reports: "If North Korea can win credibility as a nuclear-armed power and extract promises of recognition and aid from Washington and its allies, Kim will have set the stage for his son to take the world's first communist dynasty into its third generation."
North Korea responds to U.N. with nuclear threats - Reuters
Reuters reports: "North Korea said on Saturday it would start a uranium enrichment program and weaponize all its plutonium in response to fresh U.N. sanctions, which the United States said it would work vigorously to enforce. Pyongyang also threatened military action if Washington and its allies tried to isolate it."
Friday, June 12, 2009
My Way News - Rivals both claim victory in Iran's election
AP reports: "Hard-line incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was heading for a surprise landslide with nearly 80 percent of votes counted in Iran's stormy presidential elections, the Interior Ministry said Saturday. But his pro-reform rival countered that he was the clear victor and accused authorities of fraud. [...] The race will go to a runoff on June 19 if no candidate receives a simple majority of more than 50 percent of the votes cast."
Comment: This would appear to be far from over. This is a very important event in terms of Bible prophecy because it will give us some insight into how close we are to the Ezekiel 38:5 invasion of Israel. Does Iran continue down a radical path, growing stronger in opposition to the West and to Israel? Or, does Iran take a moderate turn, open up more to the West and grant more freedoms to the people before the conservatives eventually fight back and return the country to the radical course?
AP reports: "Hard-line incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was heading for a surprise landslide with nearly 80 percent of votes counted in Iran's stormy presidential elections, the Interior Ministry said Saturday. But his pro-reform rival countered that he was the clear victor and accused authorities of fraud. [...] The race will go to a runoff on June 19 if no candidate receives a simple majority of more than 50 percent of the votes cast."
Comment: This would appear to be far from over. This is a very important event in terms of Bible prophecy because it will give us some insight into how close we are to the Ezekiel 38:5 invasion of Israel. Does Iran continue down a radical path, growing stronger in opposition to the West and to Israel? Or, does Iran take a moderate turn, open up more to the West and grant more freedoms to the people before the conservatives eventually fight back and return the country to the radical course?
My Way News - UN sanctions on NKorea may be futile
AP reports: "The United Nations' new sanctions against North Korea to punish it for its latest atomic test are mostly a symbolic, feel-good gesture by the international community - the moves are unlikely to stop the Stalinist regime from trading weapons with rogue nations or hobble its already crumbling economy. The sanctions - approved late Friday by the U.N. Security Council - toughened an arms embargo and authorized ship searches on the high seas in an attempt to thwart its nuclear and ballistic missile programs."
Comment: Well, all well and good, but the real test, and the tripwire for potential war, will be when a North Korean ship suspected of carrying banned weapons is confronted by the U.S. Navy or allied ships. Apparently, the North Koreans have to give permission for a search, but what if they don't permit it? Obviously the mandate to inspect ships and prevent trade in illegal weapons means nothing if ships can't be searched by force and weapons seized. The allies could take a less confrontational approach of denying port calls and refueling to North Korean ships suspected of having banned materials but that effort would be difficult to sustain at every port from North Korea to the Middle East, where we can expect that most of the banned weapons will be sold.
AP reports: "The United Nations' new sanctions against North Korea to punish it for its latest atomic test are mostly a symbolic, feel-good gesture by the international community - the moves are unlikely to stop the Stalinist regime from trading weapons with rogue nations or hobble its already crumbling economy. The sanctions - approved late Friday by the U.N. Security Council - toughened an arms embargo and authorized ship searches on the high seas in an attempt to thwart its nuclear and ballistic missile programs."
Comment: Well, all well and good, but the real test, and the tripwire for potential war, will be when a North Korean ship suspected of carrying banned weapons is confronted by the U.S. Navy or allied ships. Apparently, the North Koreans have to give permission for a search, but what if they don't permit it? Obviously the mandate to inspect ships and prevent trade in illegal weapons means nothing if ships can't be searched by force and weapons seized. The allies could take a less confrontational approach of denying port calls and refueling to North Korean ships suspected of having banned materials but that effort would be difficult to sustain at every port from North Korea to the Middle East, where we can expect that most of the banned weapons will be sold.
My Way News - Suicide bombers strike Pakistan mosque, seminary
AP reports: "Hundreds of outraged seminary students gathered at the scene and demanded the Taliban leave Pakistan. 'Down with the Taliban!' they shouted as one man writhed on the ground in anguish and others embraced in tears. The government has vowed to rid the country of militants, and it has been emboldened by broad support for the Swat campaign from a public that has started openly denouncing the militants after years of ambivalence."
AP reports: "Hundreds of outraged seminary students gathered at the scene and demanded the Taliban leave Pakistan. 'Down with the Taliban!' they shouted as one man writhed on the ground in anguish and others embraced in tears. The government has vowed to rid the country of militants, and it has been emboldened by broad support for the Swat campaign from a public that has started openly denouncing the militants after years of ambivalence."
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Source: N. Korea may be preparing for new nuclear test - CNN.com
CNN reports: "The official, who is not authorized to speak on the record, told CNN that Washington has 'indications' that North Korea may be planning another test, which would be its third since 2006. The official would not provide any details, however."
Comment: And if they do, the U.N. will tighten sanctions even more. See, it's important that when the U.N. imposes sanctions on a country that they be very loose and easily evaded. That way, if the country continues to defy the will of the great powers, they can then tighten the sanctions and say that they have done something even when they didn't. The only country here that really matters is China, whose trade ties with the North have only increased over the period of sanctions, so they have leverage, if they want to use it, though they probably don't. So, with a permanent member of the Security Council in their corner, North Korea can pretty much test as many weapons as they want and no other country, not even the U.S., will risk actual war to stop them. Still, there is always room for miscalculation, so the danger is still very real.
CNN reports: "The official, who is not authorized to speak on the record, told CNN that Washington has 'indications' that North Korea may be planning another test, which would be its third since 2006. The official would not provide any details, however."
Comment: And if they do, the U.N. will tighten sanctions even more. See, it's important that when the U.N. imposes sanctions on a country that they be very loose and easily evaded. That way, if the country continues to defy the will of the great powers, they can then tighten the sanctions and say that they have done something even when they didn't. The only country here that really matters is China, whose trade ties with the North have only increased over the period of sanctions, so they have leverage, if they want to use it, though they probably don't. So, with a permanent member of the Security Council in their corner, North Korea can pretty much test as many weapons as they want and no other country, not even the U.S., will risk actual war to stop them. Still, there is always room for miscalculation, so the danger is still very real.
My Way News - US urges Arabs to make concessions to Israel
AP reports: "Mitchell has been pushing the peace process from the Arab side as well, urging countries to take 'confidence building measures' to help convince Netanyahu to resume negotiations, said Egyptian officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media."
Comment: I think it's telling that Mitchell has been unable to get any of them to make even the smallest gesture of reconciliation with Israel.
AP reports: "Mitchell has been pushing the peace process from the Arab side as well, urging countries to take 'confidence building measures' to help convince Netanyahu to resume negotiations, said Egyptian officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media."
Comment: I think it's telling that Mitchell has been unable to get any of them to make even the smallest gesture of reconciliation with Israel.
My Way News - Analysis: Netanyahu cornered by hawks and Obama
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will attempt to narrow a growing divide with the Obama administration when he delivers a major policy speech in the coming days, his aides say - perhaps even endorsing the concept of a Palestinian state at the risk of alienating his hawkish coalition."
Comment: It's time to pray not just for the peace of Jerusalem but for the resolve of Benjamin Netanyahu. We don't even need to put this into religious terms about giving up covenant land, we can put this into cold hard political terms: there is simply no evidence that giving up even more land to the Palestinians will suddenly turn them into peace-loving neighbors. Matters of state security should not be decided on wishful thinking.
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will attempt to narrow a growing divide with the Obama administration when he delivers a major policy speech in the coming days, his aides say - perhaps even endorsing the concept of a Palestinian state at the risk of alienating his hawkish coalition."
Comment: It's time to pray not just for the peace of Jerusalem but for the resolve of Benjamin Netanyahu. We don't even need to put this into religious terms about giving up covenant land, we can put this into cold hard political terms: there is simply no evidence that giving up even more land to the Palestinians will suddenly turn them into peace-loving neighbors. Matters of state security should not be decided on wishful thinking.
My Way News - Fighting intensifies in Pakistan's northwest
AP reports: "Pakistani troops and militants battled near the edge of the top Taliban commander's stronghold Thursday as violence in the country's volatile northwest spread and intensified, with multiple battles killing scores of insurgents."
AP reports: "Pakistani troops and militants battled near the edge of the top Taliban commander's stronghold Thursday as violence in the country's volatile northwest spread and intensified, with multiple battles killing scores of insurgents."
My Way News - Iowa woman's photo sparks push for new cloud type
AP reports: "Looking out the 11th floor window of her law office, Jane Wiggins did a double take and grabbed her camera. [...] It looked like Armageddon," said Wiggins, a paralegal and amateur photographer in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. [...] the photo Wiggins captured in June 2006 intrigued - and stumped - a group of dedicated weather watchers who now are pushing weather authorities to create a new cloud category, something that hasn't been done since 1951."
Comment: Angry clouds providing the just the right atmosphere for the end times. MSNBC has some pics of the ominous clouds.
AP reports: "Looking out the 11th floor window of her law office, Jane Wiggins did a double take and grabbed her camera. [...] It looked like Armageddon," said Wiggins, a paralegal and amateur photographer in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. [...] the photo Wiggins captured in June 2006 intrigued - and stumped - a group of dedicated weather watchers who now are pushing weather authorities to create a new cloud category, something that hasn't been done since 1951."
Comment: Angry clouds providing the just the right atmosphere for the end times. MSNBC has some pics of the ominous clouds.
BBC NEWS - Iran goes to polls to elect new president
The BBC reports: "In his final TV appearance, Mr Ahmadinejad accused his opponents of conspiring with Israelis to falsify documents and graphs to discredit him."
Comment: Let's hope the good people of Iran have enough sense to vote him out of office. Still, let's not forget that the nuclear program has enormous popular support, that is not likely to change even if a more moderate politician becomes president.
The BBC reports: "In his final TV appearance, Mr Ahmadinejad accused his opponents of conspiring with Israelis to falsify documents and graphs to discredit him."
Comment: Let's hope the good people of Iran have enough sense to vote him out of office. Still, let's not forget that the nuclear program has enormous popular support, that is not likely to change even if a more moderate politician becomes president.
BBC NEWS - Three youths stamp fawn to death
The BBC reports: "Keith Arthurs was walking his dog in Upton Country Park, near Poole, when he saw three teenage boys wearing hoods attack the fawn on Wednesday night. [...]
Pc John Snellin, wildlife officer for Dorset Police, said: 'Twenty-three years I have been in the force and I don't think, in all honesty, I have seen anything quite as barbaric and horrendous as this. It worries me what these youngsters might go on to do.'"
The BBC reports: "Keith Arthurs was walking his dog in Upton Country Park, near Poole, when he saw three teenage boys wearing hoods attack the fawn on Wednesday night. [...]
Pc John Snellin, wildlife officer for Dorset Police, said: 'Twenty-three years I have been in the force and I don't think, in all honesty, I have seen anything quite as barbaric and horrendous as this. It worries me what these youngsters might go on to do.'"
FoxNews - Nearby Star May Be Getting Ready to Explode
FoxNews reports: "Bye-bye, Betelgeuse? The nearby, well-known and very bright star may soon explode in a supernova, according to data released by U.C. Berkeley researchers Tuesday."
FoxNews reports: "Bye-bye, Betelgeuse? The nearby, well-known and very bright star may soon explode in a supernova, according to data released by U.C. Berkeley researchers Tuesday."
Comment: Though this event would be of no direct consequence to our solar system, it would nonetheless be a spectacular sight, and probably would evoke all sorts of religious speculation.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
My Way News - Elderly gunman kills guard at Holocaust Museum
AP reports: "An 88-year-old gunman with a violent and virulently anti-Semitic past opened fire with a rifle inside the crowded U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum on Wednesday, fatally wounding a security guard before being shot himself by other officers, authorities said."
Comment: Another reminder of the rise in antisemitism. I've noticed reports about incidents in Europe (synagogues attacked, cemeteries vandalized) but this is a reminder that this is also happening in the United States. The following video from CNBC shows U.S. citizens wearing swastikas and proclaiming their hatred for Jews and minorities. Didn't they learn in school that the Nazis lost the war and that many of their fellow citizens gave their lives to defeat them?
AP reports: "An 88-year-old gunman with a violent and virulently anti-Semitic past opened fire with a rifle inside the crowded U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum on Wednesday, fatally wounding a security guard before being shot himself by other officers, authorities said."
Comment: Another reminder of the rise in antisemitism. I've noticed reports about incidents in Europe (synagogues attacked, cemeteries vandalized) but this is a reminder that this is also happening in the United States. The following video from CNBC shows U.S. citizens wearing swastikas and proclaiming their hatred for Jews and minorities. Didn't they learn in school that the Nazis lost the war and that many of their fellow citizens gave their lives to defeat them?
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
My Way News - US envoy pushes for prompt Mideast peace talks
AP reports: "The United States seeks a 'prompt resumption and early conclusion' of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, Washington's special Mideast envoy said after talks Wednesday with Palestinian leaders."
AP reports: "The United States seeks a 'prompt resumption and early conclusion' of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, Washington's special Mideast envoy said after talks Wednesday with Palestinian leaders."
My Way News - Key events in Iran since revolution
The AP provides: "A look at important dates in Iranian international and domestic affairs since the 1979 Islamic Revolution."
The AP provides: "A look at important dates in Iranian international and domestic affairs since the 1979 Islamic Revolution."
My Way News - Ahmadinejad lashes out at rival before Iran vote
AP reports: "Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is locked in a neck-and-neck race against reformist Mir Hossein Mousavi. Both have launched intense political attacks against each other and have turned the presidential election into a display of Iran's deep political divides."
AP reports: "Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is locked in a neck-and-neck race against reformist Mir Hossein Mousavi. Both have launched intense political attacks against each other and have turned the presidential election into a display of Iran's deep political divides."
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
My Way News - WHO says it may declare swine flu pandemic soon
AP reports: "The World Health Organization said Tuesday a spike in swine flu cases in Australia may push it to finally announce the first flu pandemic in 41 years. It also expressed concern about an unusual rise in severe illness from the disease in Canada."
AP reports: "The World Health Organization said Tuesday a spike in swine flu cases in Australia may push it to finally announce the first flu pandemic in 41 years. It also expressed concern about an unusual rise in severe illness from the disease in Canada."
My Way News - US envoy affirms support for Israel despite rift
AP reports: "An American envoy sought to assure anxious Israeli leaders on Tuesday that U.S. support for the Jewish state remains firm, despite a growing rift over Israeli construction in West Bank settlements and the Obama administration's approach to peace efforts."
AP reports: "An American envoy sought to assure anxious Israeli leaders on Tuesday that U.S. support for the Jewish state remains firm, despite a growing rift over Israeli construction in West Bank settlements and the Obama administration's approach to peace efforts."
My Way News - Suicide bombers strike luxury hotel in Pakistan
AP reports: "Suicide attackers shot their way past guards and set off a massive blast outside a luxury hotel where foreigners and well-to-do Pakistanis mixed, killing at least 11 people and wounding 70, officials said."
AP reports: "Suicide attackers shot their way past guards and set off a massive blast outside a luxury hotel where foreigners and well-to-do Pakistanis mixed, killing at least 11 people and wounding 70, officials said."
My Way News - UN: Atrocities in Somalia force 100,000 to flee
AP reports: "Somalis are experiencing near-daily atrocities, including rape, the shelling of civilian areas and fighting that has forced more than 100,000 to flee their homes since May, the U.N. refugee agency said Tuesday."
AP reports: "Somalis are experiencing near-daily atrocities, including rape, the shelling of civilian areas and fighting that has forced more than 100,000 to flee their homes since May, the U.N. refugee agency said Tuesday."
Monday, June 08, 2009
My Way News - Global arms spending rises despite economic woes
AP reports: "World governments spent a record $1.46 trillion on upgrading their armed forces last year despite the economic downturn, with China climbing to second place behind top military spender the United States, a Swedish research group said Monday."
Comment: The politicians love to talk peace, but they budget for war, with funding levels for new weapons now at record levels.
AP reports: "World governments spent a record $1.46 trillion on upgrading their armed forces last year despite the economic downturn, with China climbing to second place behind top military spender the United States, a Swedish research group said Monday."
Comment: The politicians love to talk peace, but they budget for war, with funding levels for new weapons now at record levels.
My Way News - US Marines fan out across dangerous Afghan south
AP reports: "Teams of builders worked through dust storms Monday to expand a base for a brigade of U.S. Marines now fanning out across southern Afghanistan to change the course of a war claiming American lives faster than ever before."
AP reports: "Teams of builders worked through dust storms Monday to expand a base for a brigade of U.S. Marines now fanning out across southern Afghanistan to change the course of a war claiming American lives faster than ever before."
My Way News - Pakistanis attack Taliban over mosque bombing
AP reports: "Pakistani tribesmen seeking revenge for a deadly mosque bombing attacked militant strongholds for a third day Monday, while the country's Taliban leader faced rare denunciation from within insurgent ranks."
AP reports: "Pakistani tribesmen seeking revenge for a deadly mosque bombing attacked militant strongholds for a third day Monday, while the country's Taliban leader faced rare denunciation from within insurgent ranks."
My Way News - Ore. investigators: Woman cut open, baby taken
AP reports: "A once-pregnant 21-year-old newcomer to Oregon who was found dead in a crawl space of a home had been cut open and her baby taken from her womb, investigators said Monday."
AP reports: "A once-pregnant 21-year-old newcomer to Oregon who was found dead in a crawl space of a home had been cut open and her baby taken from her womb, investigators said Monday."
My Way News - Veteran LA police detective charged with murder
AP reports: "A veteran detective was charged with murder Monday in the slaying of her ex-boyfriend's wife in 1986 - a crime she apparently kept secret while rising through the ranks at the Los Angeles Police Department."
Comment: When people we expect to represent justice are actually criminals, I think that is a special class of wickedness that deserves to be noted. Is it up there with genocide? Probably not, but it's a fundamental betrayal, not just of the people they wronged, but of the entire society they pledged to protect.
AP reports: "A veteran detective was charged with murder Monday in the slaying of her ex-boyfriend's wife in 1986 - a crime she apparently kept secret while rising through the ranks at the Los Angeles Police Department."
Comment: When people we expect to represent justice are actually criminals, I think that is a special class of wickedness that deserves to be noted. Is it up there with genocide? Probably not, but it's a fundamental betrayal, not just of the people they wronged, but of the entire society they pledged to protect.
My Way News - Iran reformists rally as election looms
AP reports: "Reformists, who promise to ease social and political restrictions at home and seek better ties with the West, appear to be gaining ground on Ahmadinejad, who has become increasingly unpopular because of Iran's economic woes. Critics also say he has needlessly enflamed world anger at Iran with his statements calling U.N. resolutions 'worthless papers' and casting doubt on the Holocaust."
AP reports: "Reformists, who promise to ease social and political restrictions at home and seek better ties with the West, appear to be gaining ground on Ahmadinejad, who has become increasingly unpopular because of Iran's economic woes. Critics also say he has needlessly enflamed world anger at Iran with his statements calling U.N. resolutions 'worthless papers' and casting doubt on the Holocaust."
My Way News - Lebanon vote undercuts Hezbollah, boost for Obama
AP reports: "A pro-Western coalition won Lebanon's parliamentary elections Monday, dealing a major setback to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah and giving a boost to Barack Obama's Middle East peace policy."
AP reports: "A pro-Western coalition won Lebanon's parliamentary elections Monday, dealing a major setback to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah and giving a boost to Barack Obama's Middle East peace policy."
My Way News - Hamas official says Obama should talk to militants
AP reports: "Hamas' deputy political leader, Moussa Abu Marzouk, also told The Associated Press that the group would not renounce violence - a key U.S. demand before Washington will agree to deal with the group that it considers a terrorist organization. The U.S. and its European allies also want Hamas to recognize Israel, another step the group has refused to take."
AP reports: "Hamas' deputy political leader, Moussa Abu Marzouk, also told The Associated Press that the group would not renounce violence - a key U.S. demand before Washington will agree to deal with the group that it considers a terrorist organization. The U.S. and its European allies also want Hamas to recognize Israel, another step the group has refused to take."
Saturday, June 06, 2009
My Way News - Hezbollah challenges pro-West camp in Lebanon vote
AP reports: "Lebanese voters face a stark choice Sunday between renewing the mandate of a pro-Western coalition or handing power to a Hezbollah-led alliance that could bring international isolation and new conflict with Israel upon the small, tumultuous country."
Comment: The tides of politics suggest that Hezbollah may win their election in Lebanon even as their primary sponsor in Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, may lose his. Both elections promise to reshape the political landscape in the Middle East.
AP reports: "Lebanese voters face a stark choice Sunday between renewing the mandate of a pro-Western coalition or handing power to a Hezbollah-led alliance that could bring international isolation and new conflict with Israel upon the small, tumultuous country."
Comment: The tides of politics suggest that Hezbollah may win their election in Lebanon even as their primary sponsor in Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, may lose his. Both elections promise to reshape the political landscape in the Middle East.
My Way News - Iran's ex-president to sue Ahmadinejad for slander
AP reports: "Ahmadinejad's bid for re-election has been burdened by Iran's stumbling economy and accusations from rivals that his confrontational policies have left Iran with few friends in the world. He is up against a strong challenge by reformists who seek better ties with the West and greater freedoms at home."
AP reports: "Ahmadinejad's bid for re-election has been burdened by Iran's stumbling economy and accusations from rivals that his confrontational policies have left Iran with few friends in the world. He is up against a strong challenge by reformists who seek better ties with the West and greater freedoms at home."
My Way News - SKorea: North's nuke, missile threats won't work
AP reports: "South Korea's president said Saturday his country won't give in to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, while Pyongyang accused Seoul of sending patrol boats into its territorial waters - the scene of past bloody naval clashes."
AP reports: "South Korea's president said Saturday his country won't give in to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, while Pyongyang accused Seoul of sending patrol boats into its territorial waters - the scene of past bloody naval clashes."
My Way News - AP IMPACT: In Algeria, al-Qaida extends franchise
AP reports: "Deep in the Sahara Desert, along the remote southern borders of Algeria, lies an immense no man's land where militants roam. It is here that terrorists linked with al-Qaida traffic everything from weapons and drugs to illegal migrants. They have planted at least a half-dozen cells in Europe, according to French, Italian and Belgian intelligence."
AP reports: "Deep in the Sahara Desert, along the remote southern borders of Algeria, lies an immense no man's land where militants roam. It is here that terrorists linked with al-Qaida traffic everything from weapons and drugs to illegal migrants. They have planted at least a half-dozen cells in Europe, according to French, Italian and Belgian intelligence."
My Way News - CDC: Swine flu to spread in Southern Hemisphere
AP reports: "Mexico has seen the worst of swine flu, but the virus will likely continue to spread worldwide as flu season ramps up in the Southern Hemisphere."
AP reports: "Mexico has seen the worst of swine flu, but the virus will likely continue to spread worldwide as flu season ramps up in the Southern Hemisphere."
My Way News - UN: New uranium traces found in Syria
AP reports: "The U.N nuclear agency on Friday reported its second unexplained find of uranium particles at a Syrian nuclear site, in a probe launched by suspicions that a remote desert site hit by Israeli warplanes was a nearly finished plutonium producing reactor."
AP reports: "The U.N nuclear agency on Friday reported its second unexplained find of uranium particles at a Syrian nuclear site, in a probe launched by suspicions that a remote desert site hit by Israeli warplanes was a nearly finished plutonium producing reactor."
Friday, June 05, 2009
In Germany, Obama strikes an urgent note on Mideast peace - Los Angeles Times
The LA Times reports: "President Obama declared Friday that 'the moment is now' to settle 60 years of conflict in the Middle East as he sought to stoke momentum for negotiations a day after his address in Cairo that both inspired hopes and rattled nerves across the region."
The LA Times reports: "President Obama declared Friday that 'the moment is now' to settle 60 years of conflict in the Middle East as he sought to stoke momentum for negotiations a day after his address in Cairo that both inspired hopes and rattled nerves across the region."
My Way News - Ex-nuke negotiator calls Ahmadinejad a 'demagogue'
AP reports: "The criticism is part of the verbal dueling before the June 12 presidential election, in which Ahmadinejad faces a tough challenge from three other contenders, including two reformists who favor better ties with the West."
AP reports: "The criticism is part of the verbal dueling before the June 12 presidential election, in which Ahmadinejad faces a tough challenge from three other contenders, including two reformists who favor better ties with the West."
My Way News - Obama gets reality check from complex Mideast
AP reports: "More than anything else, some influential figures said Friday that they could not look past Obama's affirmation of the 'unbreakable' bond between the U.S. and Israel, and they took that as a sign that nothing had changed. 'We have witnessed that despite every nice word he said toward Arabs and Muslims or Islam, he is still committed to the unbreakable bond toward the Zionist entity,' Fadlallah said. [...] In Damascus, Syria, Hamas politburo member Ezzat Rashq said the speech signaled no change in U.S. policy, and he rejected Obama's call on the group to renounce violence and recognize Israel's right to exist."
AP reports: "More than anything else, some influential figures said Friday that they could not look past Obama's affirmation of the 'unbreakable' bond between the U.S. and Israel, and they took that as a sign that nothing had changed. 'We have witnessed that despite every nice word he said toward Arabs and Muslims or Islam, he is still committed to the unbreakable bond toward the Zionist entity,' Fadlallah said. [...] In Damascus, Syria, Hamas politburo member Ezzat Rashq said the speech signaled no change in U.S. policy, and he rejected Obama's call on the group to renounce violence and recognize Israel's right to exist."
My Way News - Israel: No policy change after Obama speech
AP reports: "Israel will not heed President Barack Obama's powerful appeal to halt all settlement activity on lands the Palestinians claim for a future state, officials said Friday, a position that looks sure to cause a policy clash with its most important ally."
AP reports: "Israel will not heed President Barack Obama's powerful appeal to halt all settlement activity on lands the Palestinians claim for a future state, officials said Friday, a position that looks sure to cause a policy clash with its most important ally."
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Zimbabwe faces new cholera crisis - CNN.com
CNN reports: "The worst cholera outbreak in Africa in 15 years has killed more than 4,000 Zimbabweans, and the crisis threatens to worsen when the rainy season hits, the U.N. Children's Fund said Thursday."
CNN reports: "The worst cholera outbreak in Africa in 15 years has killed more than 4,000 Zimbabweans, and the crisis threatens to worsen when the rainy season hits, the U.N. Children's Fund said Thursday."
My Way News - Obama extends hand to Muslim world in speech
AP reports: "The Israeli government issued a statement saying it, too, hoped for a new era. But it skirted any reference to Obama's calls for a settlement freeze in the West Bank and the creation of an independent Palestinian state - demands that Israel's hawkish prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, continues to reject."
AP reports: "The Israeli government issued a statement saying it, too, hoped for a new era. But it skirted any reference to Obama's calls for a settlement freeze in the West Bank and the creation of an independent Palestinian state - demands that Israel's hawkish prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, continues to reject."
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Holy Twitter! Tweeting from the pews - Tech and gadgets- msnbc.com
MSNBC reports: "Welcome to the 3G(od) network, where social media have become as vital a communication tool for clergy and congregations as the traditional post-sermon coffee hour. While not all churches have gone as far as to incorporate real-time Twitter streams into their Sunday services, many are using Facebook, Flickr, MySpace, LinkedIn and other social networking sites to get the word (or, rather, “the Word”) out there."
Comment: I have to admit, I really like this news report. I enjoy reading about all the new ways people have found to share the gospel. I'm a big believer in using every new technology that comes along to share the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Onward Christian twitterers!
MSNBC reports: "Welcome to the 3G(od) network, where social media have become as vital a communication tool for clergy and congregations as the traditional post-sermon coffee hour. While not all churches have gone as far as to incorporate real-time Twitter streams into their Sunday services, many are using Facebook, Flickr, MySpace, LinkedIn and other social networking sites to get the word (or, rather, “the Word”) out there."
Comment: I have to admit, I really like this news report. I enjoy reading about all the new ways people have found to share the gospel. I'm a big believer in using every new technology that comes along to share the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Onward Christian twitterers!
My Way News - Obama visits Saudi king before high-stakes speech
AP reports: "The centerpiece of the speech is the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, a driving force behind Muslim anger worldwide. [...] That includes calling for a full halt to all growth in Jewish settlements in the Palestinian West Bank [...] It also includes telling Palestinians that anti-Israel rhetoric, and the violence it spawns, does not benefit their daily lives [...] Obama also wants to persuade Arab allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, to make conciliatory diplomatic moves toward Israel."
Comment: I'm glad to hear that he is asking for concessions from all sides. I'm tired of hearing about them asking Israel to keep making concessions without asking for concessions from the Palestinians and the other peace partners. So far, I've yet to be convinced that the Palestinians and their allies really want peace. They want land, Israeli land, that is certain, but do they really want peace?
AP reports: "The centerpiece of the speech is the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, a driving force behind Muslim anger worldwide. [...] That includes calling for a full halt to all growth in Jewish settlements in the Palestinian West Bank [...] It also includes telling Palestinians that anti-Israel rhetoric, and the violence it spawns, does not benefit their daily lives [...] Obama also wants to persuade Arab allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, to make conciliatory diplomatic moves toward Israel."
Comment: I'm glad to hear that he is asking for concessions from all sides. I'm tired of hearing about them asking Israel to keep making concessions without asking for concessions from the Palestinians and the other peace partners. So far, I've yet to be convinced that the Palestinians and their allies really want peace. They want land, Israeli land, that is certain, but do they really want peace?
My Way News - Rival: Ahmadinejad moves Iran toward dictatorship
AP reports: "The main pro-reform candidate accused hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of driving Iran toward 'dictatorship' and hurting its standing in the world by questioning the Holocaust, during a rare and unprecedentedly raucous election debate Wednesday."
AP reports: "The main pro-reform candidate accused hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of driving Iran toward 'dictatorship' and hurting its standing in the world by questioning the Holocaust, during a rare and unprecedentedly raucous election debate Wednesday."
My Way News - Bin Laden threatens Americans in new tape
AP reports: "Osama bin Laden threatened Americans in a new audio recording aired Wednesday, saying President Barack Obama inflamed hatred toward the U.S. by ordering Pakistan to crack down on militants in Swat Valley and block Islamic law there."
AP reports: "Osama bin Laden threatened Americans in a new audio recording aired Wednesday, saying President Barack Obama inflamed hatred toward the U.S. by ordering Pakistan to crack down on militants in Swat Valley and block Islamic law there."
My Way News - Israel takes down key roadblock in West Bank
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under heavy U.S. pressure to get peacemaking back on track by recognizing the Palestinians' right to a state of their own and halting settlement expansion in the West Bank."
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under heavy U.S. pressure to get peacemaking back on track by recognizing the Palestinians' right to a state of their own and halting settlement expansion in the West Bank."
My Way News - Israel not going to bomb Iran: Foreign Minister
AP reports: "Israel does not intend to bomb Iran, Israel's foreign minister said Wednesday, stepping back from suggestions it might attack a major foe it says is bent on developing nuclear weapons."
AP reports: "Israel does not intend to bomb Iran, Israel's foreign minister said Wednesday, stepping back from suggestions it might attack a major foe it says is bent on developing nuclear weapons."
My Way News - Report: US mulling financial sanctions on NKorea
AP reports: "The U.S. is likely to slap strong financial sanctions against North Korea that are separate from punishments being considered at the U.N. for the nation's latest nuclear test, a news report said Thursday, a move certain to infuriate Pyongyang."
AP reports: "The U.S. is likely to slap strong financial sanctions against North Korea that are separate from punishments being considered at the U.N. for the nation's latest nuclear test, a news report said Thursday, a move certain to infuriate Pyongyang."
My Way News - New US general vows 'careful' use of airstrikes
AP reports: "The incoming general in charge of U.S. troops along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border vowed Wednesday to be careful in the use of airstrikes, a contentious issue here because of the civilian casualties they can cause."
AP reports: "The incoming general in charge of U.S. troops along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border vowed Wednesday to be careful in the use of airstrikes, a contentious issue here because of the civilian casualties they can cause."
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
BBC NEWS South-Asia hunger 'at 40-year high'
BBC News reports: "A UN report says hunger in South Asia has reached its highest level in 40 years because of food and fuel price rises and the global economic downturn."
BBC News reports: "A UN report says hunger in South Asia has reached its highest level in 40 years because of food and fuel price rises and the global economic downturn."
My Way News - Israel OKs contentious hotel in east Jerusalem
AP reports: "Israel captured east Jerusalem, including the Old City, in the 1967 Mideast war. Unlike the West Bank and Gaza, Israel annexed east Jerusalem shortly after the war, a move that has not been recognized by any other country. The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem as the capital of the state they want to establish."
AP reports: "Israel captured east Jerusalem, including the Old City, in the 1967 Mideast war. Unlike the West Bank and Gaza, Israel annexed east Jerusalem shortly after the war, a move that has not been recognized by any other country. The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem as the capital of the state they want to establish."
My Way News - Iran, Mideast peace likely Obama focus in Saudi
AP reports: "President Barack Obama begins a crucial Mideast trip Wednesday with a visit to Saudi Arabia, where concerns about U.S. outreach to Iran, the Israel-Palestinian peace process, and the kingdom's willingness to accept Yemeni prisoners from Guantanamo will all likely be on the agenda."
AP reports: "President Barack Obama begins a crucial Mideast trip Wednesday with a visit to Saudi Arabia, where concerns about U.S. outreach to Iran, the Israel-Palestinian peace process, and the kingdom's willingness to accept Yemeni prisoners from Guantanamo will all likely be on the agenda."
Zawahiri To Obama: "You Are Not Welcome in Egypt" - Internet Terror Monitor - CBS News
CBS News reports: "Al Qaeda No. 2, Ayman Zawahiri said in a new audiotape today that President Obama is not welcome in Egypt.[...] He concluded his message by urging Egyptians not to welcome the US President in Egypt."
CBS News reports: "Al Qaeda No. 2, Ayman Zawahiri said in a new audiotape today that President Obama is not welcome in Egypt.[...] He concluded his message by urging Egyptians not to welcome the US President in Egypt."
Monday, June 01, 2009
My Way News - Netanyahu rejects US calls for settlement freeze
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday rejected President Barack Obama's demand for a freeze on West Bank Jewish settlement construction, but his government's move to dismantle some squatter camps set off a rampage by Jewish settlers against Palestinians."
AP reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday rejected President Barack Obama's demand for a freeze on West Bank Jewish settlement construction, but his government's move to dismantle some squatter camps set off a rampage by Jewish settlers against Palestinians."
My Way News - Cardinal: Beijing still controlling Chinese church
AP reports: "Millions of Chinese belong to unofficial congregations that are loyal to Rome. Underground priests and bishops have been harassed or arrested, and the Vatican recently denounced a new wave of arrests, accusing Beijing of creating obstacles to a dialogue."
AP reports: "Millions of Chinese belong to unofficial congregations that are loyal to Rome. Underground priests and bishops have been harassed or arrested, and the Vatican recently denounced a new wave of arrests, accusing Beijing of creating obstacles to a dialogue."
My Way News - NKorea readies long-range missile test
AP reports: "North Korea appears to be preparing to test an advanced missile designed to reach the United States, a U.S. official said Monday, ratcheting up tensions after its second nuclear blast. Media reports say the North Korean leader's youngest son has been picked to be the next leader."
AP reports: "North Korea appears to be preparing to test an advanced missile designed to reach the United States, a U.S. official said Monday, ratcheting up tensions after its second nuclear blast. Media reports say the North Korean leader's youngest son has been picked to be the next leader."
My Way News - Police: Recruiting center gunman targeted military
AP reports: "A police report based on an interview with the suspect says Abdulhakim Mujahid Muhammad, 23, told police he observed two soldiers in uniform, drove up to the recruiting center and started shooting."
Comment: A sleeper agent?
AP reports: "A police report based on an interview with the suspect says Abdulhakim Mujahid Muhammad, 23, told police he observed two soldiers in uniform, drove up to the recruiting center and started shooting."
Comment: A sleeper agent?
My Way News - World's strongest laser unveiled at California lab
AP reports: "The laser will be used in astrophysics, allowing scientists to mimic conditions inside planets and new solar systems, something the lab's officials said would allow for conducting experiments that could never be undertaken on Earth before."
AP reports: "The laser will be used in astrophysics, allowing scientists to mimic conditions inside planets and new solar systems, something the lab's officials said would allow for conducting experiments that could never be undertaken on Earth before."
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